JP2023078754A - game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To improve an amusement property of a game.SOLUTION: A game machine includes: game control means capable of switching a game state between a first state in which entry of a game ball to a specific ball entry port is easy and a second state in which entry of a game ball to the specific ball entry port is difficult; and performance execution means capable of executing a launching promotion performance for promoting launching of a game ball for causing a game ball to enter the specific ball entry port. When a specific variation performance is executed in the first state, the game control means switches the game state from the first state to the second state accompanying the end of the specific variation performance. The performance execution means executes the launching promotion performance from a start time point of the specific variation performance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 20

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine such as a pachinko game machine.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a gaming machine that notifies a player to hit to the right in the final variation of a time-saving gaming state (see Patent Document 1, for example). In such a gaming machine, after the start of the final variable effect, the right hitting notification is executed.

JP 2019-201977 A

However, there is still room for improvement in order to improve the interest in games in such gaming machines.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to improve the enjoyment of games.

The present invention has been made to solve at least part of the above problems, and can be implemented as the following application examples.

[Application example 1]
a game control means capable of switching between a first state in which it is easy to enter a game ball into a specific ball entrance and a second state in which it is difficult to enter;
an effect execution means capable of executing a launch promotion effect that encourages the launch of a game ball for entering the specific ball entrance;
A gaming machine comprising
The game control means switches from the first state to the second state with the end of the specific variation performance when the specific variation performance is executed in the first state,
The effect executing means executes the firing promotion effect from the start of the specific variable effect.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Application example 2]
The gaming machine according to Application Example 1,
The effect execution means stops the launch promotion effect when a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific ball entrance.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Application Example 3]
The gaming machine according to Application Example 1 or Application Example 2,
The effect executing means executes the firing promotion effect during the customer waiting mode when the customer waiting mode is entered in the first state.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Application example 4]
The gaming machine according to any one of Application Examples 1 to 3,
The effect execution means displays a guide image for making the player recognize the position of the specific ball entrance, and executes the launch promotion effect.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Application example 5]
A game control means capable of switching between a first state in which it is easy to pass the game ball through the specific area and a second state in which it is difficult to pass the game ball;
an effect execution means capable of executing a launch promotion effect that encourages the launch of a game ball to pass through the specific area;
A gaming machine comprising
The game control means is
When the opening effect is executed in the second state, switching from the second state to the first state with the end of the opening effect,
switching from the first state to the second state after a predetermined time has elapsed;
The effect execution means starts the launch promotion effect from the start of the opening effect.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Application example 6]
The gaming machine according to Application Example 5,
The effect execution means stops the launch promotion effect when a predetermined number of game balls pass through the specific area.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Application example 7]
The gaming machine according to Application Example 5 or Application Example 6,
The effect execution means displays a guide image for making the player recognize the position of the specific area, and executes the launch promotion effect.
A gaming machine characterized by:

According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

1 is a front view of a game machine; FIG. It is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration on the main control board side. It is a figure for demonstrating a sensor solenoid. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration on the sub-control board side; FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the storage area of the microcomputer for game control, and the microcomputer for effect control. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a hit determination table; It is explanatory drawing of a jackpot classification determination table. It is explanatory drawing of the fluctuation pattern determination table at the time of a non-time-saving state. It is explanatory drawing of the variation pattern determination table at the time of a time saving state. 4 is a flowchart of main control main processing; 10 is a flowchart of main-side timer interrupt processing; 4 is a flowchart of special action processing; It is a flowchart of a special symbol standby process. It is a flowchart of hit determination processing. It is a flowchart of special electric auditors processing (small hit). 9 is a flowchart of sub-control main processing; 9 is a flowchart of sub-side timer interrupt processing; 8 is a flowchart of received command analysis processing; It is a flow chart of the fluctuation effect start processing. It is a flowchart of a launch notification process. It is a figure for demonstrating the example of the discharge|fire notification production|presentation to V area|region. It is a time chart figure of the discharge information production|presentation to V area|region. It is a diagram for explaining an example of a launch notification effect when shifting to the customer waiting state during the time-saving game. It is a time chart diagram of the launch notification effect when shifting to the customer waiting state during the time saving game. It is a diagram for explaining an example of a launch notification effect at the start of the time saving game final variation. It is a time chart diagram of the launch notification effect at the start of the time saving game final fluctuation.

<First embodiment>
1. Structure of Gaming Machine FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine 1 as one embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the left-right direction of the gaming machine 1 corresponds to the left-right direction viewed from the player facing the gaming machine 1 . Also, the front direction of the gaming machine 1 will be described as the direction from the gaming machine 1 to the player, and the rearward direction of the gaming machine 1 will be described as the direction from the player to the gaming machine 1 .

The game machine 1 is a pachinko game machine that shoots game balls based on a player's shooting operation, and pays out a predetermined number of game balls to the player based on the winning when the game balls win in a specific winning device. be.

The game machine 1 includes a game machine frame 50 and a game board 2, and the game board 2 is attached inside the game machine frame 50.例文帳に追加The game machine frame 50 includes a front frame (front frame portion) 53, an outer frame (base frame portion) that forms the outer shell of the game machine, and an inner frame to which the game board 2 is attached inside the outer frame. I have it.

The front frame (front frame portion) 53 is a vertically rectangular unit arranged on the front side of the outer frame and the inner frame. ) 62 , an effect button 63 , a sword member 64 , a sword button 65 , a frame lamp 66 , a speaker 67 , a select button 68 and a frame movable body 600 . An opening is formed in the center of the front frame 53, and the game area 3 of the game board 2 can be viewed through the opening.

The handle 60 is arranged at the lower end on the right side of the front frame 53, and shoots the game ball with a shooting intensity corresponding to the rotation angle. A batted ball supply tray (upper tray) 61 is provided below the front frame 53 and stores game balls. The surplus ball receiving tray (lower tray) 62 is arranged below the hit ball supply tray (upper tray) 61 and stores game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray (upper tray) 61 .

The production button 63 is an operation unit arranged near the batted ball supply tray (upper tray) 61, and is operated (pressed) by the player at the time of production performed as the game progresses. The sword member 64 is a sword-shaped operation unit, and can be pushed downward by the player during effects that are executed as the game progresses. The sword button 65 is an operation unit provided at the upper end portion of the sword member 64, that is, at the end of the hilt of the sword, and is operated (pressed) by the player during effects that are executed as the game progresses. be. The sword member 64 is configured to be able to perform two different operations: a first operation of pushing the entire sword member 64 downward, and a second operation of pressing the sword button 65 at the tip.

The frame lamp 66 is arranged around the opening of the front frame 53, and performs light emission effect during a game or the like. The speakers 67 are arranged on the upper left and upper right sides of the front frame 53, and produce sound during a game or the like. The select button 68 is a so-called cross key and is composed of a left button, a right button, an up button, and a down button, and enables various inputs. The frame movable body 600 is a movable so-called gimmick provided on the upper portion of the front frame 53 . The frame movable body 600 is configured to be displaceable from a retracted state in which it is stored inside the front frame 53 to an exposed state in which it protrudes upward from the front frame 53 .

The game board 2 includes a game area 3, a rail member 4, a board lamp 5, an image display device 7, a center decoration 10, a fixed winning device (navel) 19, and a normal variable winning device (electric chew) 22. , a gate (through chucker) 28, a first big winning device (first attacker) 31, a second big winning device (second attacker) 36, a general winning gate 27 (ordinary winning gate 27), and an out gate. 16 and a display 40 .

The game area 3 is an area where the game ball shot by the operation of the handle 60 flows down, and a plurality of game nails for guiding the game ball are protruded. The rail member 4 is arranged at the left end of the game area 3 and guides the game ball shot by operating the handle 60 upwards of the game area 3 . The board lamp 5 is arranged on the back side of the game area 3 and emits light from the back side of the game area 3 .

The image display device 7 is provided near the center of the game area 3 and has a display screen 7a. The image display device 7 may be a liquid crystal display device, or may be another image display device such as an organic EL display device, a plasma display, a projector, or a dot matrix. The display screen 7a of the image display device 7 includes a performance symbol display area in which performance symbols (decorative symbols) 8L, 8C, and 8R are variably displayed, a pending image display area in which pending images 9A and 9B are displayed, and a pending digest image. and a pending digest image display area in which 9C is displayed. The pending images 9A and 9B are images representing pending and are also called pending icons 9A and 9B. The pending digest image 9C is an image corresponding to the variation, and is also called the variation image 9C or the variation icon 9C. The suspended digested image 9C is an image corresponding to the change and does not indicate suspension.

The performance symbol display area includes three symbol display areas of "left", "middle" and "right". A left effect pattern (left decorative pattern) 8L is displayed in the left pattern display area. A medium effect pattern (middle decorative pattern) 8C is displayed in the middle pattern display area. A right effect pattern (right decorative pattern) 8R is displayed in the right pattern display area. The production patterns 8L, 8C, and 8R are composed of a plurality of patterns representing numbers "0" to "9", for example. The variable display of the effect symbols 8L, 8C, 8R is synchronized with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol which will be described later. The image display device 7 makes it easy for the player to understand the results of the variable display of the first special pattern and the second special pattern (jackpot lottery result) by combining the performance patterns displayed in the left, middle and right pattern display areas. can be displayed. In addition, the first special design and the second special design are collectively referred to as "special design".

For example, when a jackpot is won, the production pattern is stopped and displayed with double numbers such as "777". In the case of a miss, the production pattern is stopped and displayed with a loose pattern such as "637". This makes it easier for the player to grasp the progress of the game. The player can grasp the jackpot lottery result from the image display device 7 . Moreover, as a mode of the variable display of the effect symbols, a mode of scrolling in the vertical direction may be used, or a mode other than that may be used. It is not limited to the above, and can be arbitrarily set as to what combination of performance symbols to stop display according to each lottery result. Hereinafter, the effect of displaying the effect symbols 8L, 8C, 8R is also called "variation effect of effect pattern", "variation effect of decorative symbol", or simply "variation effect". It should be noted that, in the variation performance of the performance symbols, the performance in the period from when the special symbols start to stop until it stops (also referred to as the special symbol variation period) is counted as one variation performance. Therefore, even if there is a case in which the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped during the period from when the special symbols start to fluctuate until they stop, the performance of the temporary stop is included in the variable performance of the decorative symbols.

The image display device 7 can display, on the display screen 7a, a big win performance performed in parallel with a big win game (an example of a special game), a demonstration performance for waiting for customers, etc., in addition to the performance symbol variation performance. In the production design variation production, production images such as a background image and a character image may be displayed in addition to the production design. In addition to the effect pattern, the image display device 7 also provides an identification display (fourth pattern, not shown) that can suggest that the special pattern is changing, or that the special pattern lottery result can be suggested. may be displayed on the display screen 7a. The identification display (fourth pattern) may be displayed by a light emitter such as an LED provided in the game area 3 .

The reserved image display area is a first reserved display area that displays a reserved image 9A according to the number of memories of the first special figure reservation described later, and a reserved image 9B according to the number of memories of the second special figure reservation that will be described later. and a second reserved display area. By displaying the pending images 9A and 9B, the stored number of the first special figure pending and the stored number of the second special figure pending can be displayed in an easy-to-understand manner for the player. The pending digest image display area includes a pending digest display area that displays a pending digest image 9C. The reserved digested image 9C corresponds to the effect symbols (effect symbols 8L, 8C, 8R) that are currently changing on the display screen 7a, and depending on the display of the suspended digested image 9C, the first special figure suspension or the second special figure suspension It is possible to display in an easy-to-understand manner for the player that is digested ("digestion of special figure reservation" described later).

The center decorative body 10 is arranged near the center of the game area 3 and in front of the image display device 7 .
A stage portion 11 is formed below the center decorative body 10 . The stage portion 11 has a shape capable of guiding a game ball rolling on the upper surface of the stage portion 11 to a first starting port 20 which will be described later. A warp portion 12 is provided on the lower left side of the center decorative body 10 . The warp part 12 has an entrance part into which the game balls flow in and an exit part from which the game balls flow out, and the game balls flowing in from the entrance part flow out to the stage part 11 from the exit part.

A fixed winning device (navel) 19 is arranged below the image display device 7 in the game area 3, and has a first start port 20 that allows the ease with which a game ball enters the game. Winning of the game ball to the first starting port 20 triggers a first special symbol lottery (jackpot lottery). In other words, the winning of the game ball into the first starting port 20 is a trigger for obtaining a winning random number and the like and determining a big win.

A normal variable winning device (electric chew) 22 is arranged below the first starting port 20 in the game area 3 and has a second starting port 21 . Winning of the game ball to the second starting port 21 triggers a second special symbol lottery (jackpot lottery). The electric chew 22 has a movable member 23 in front of the second starting port 21 , and the second starting port 21 is opened and closed by the operation of the movable member 23 . The movable member 23 is driven by an electric tuning solenoid 24 (FIG. 3). A game ball can enter the second starting port 21 when the movable member 23 is in an open state. It is sufficient for the electric chew 22 that it is easier for the ball to enter the second starting port 21 when the movable member 23 is in the open state than when it is in the closed state. It may be possible to enter the ball into.

The gate (through chucker) 28 is arranged above the first big winning device (first attacker) 31 in the game area 3, and is configured to allow game balls to pass through. Passage of the game ball to the gate 28 triggers a normal symbol lottery for determining whether or not to open the electric chew 22.例文帳に追加In other words, the passage of the game ball through the gate 28 serves as a trigger for acquisition of normal symbol random numbers, hit determination, and the like.

Here, the "lottery of special symbols" means that when a game ball wins in the first start port 20 or the second start port 21, a random number for special symbol determination is obtained, and the obtained random number is determined in advance. It is a process of determining whether or not a big win is made by comparing with the value corresponding to the "big win". The lottery result of this "big win" is not immediately notified to the player, but the variable display of the special symbols is performed on the display device 40, and when a predetermined variation time elapses, the special symbol corresponding to the lottery result is displayed. A stop display (fixed display) is performed, and the player is notified of the lottery result. In the image display device 7, a pattern matching game for variably displaying performance patterns is performed in synchronism with the variable display of the special patterns, and the result of the lottery of the big win is reported to the player more effectively by the pattern matching game.

In addition, the "lottery of normal symbols" means that when a game ball passes through the gate 28, a random number for normal symbol determination is obtained, and the obtained random number is compared with a value corresponding to a predetermined "hit". By doing so, it means the process of judging whether or not it is a hit. As for the lottery result of this normal pattern, the game ball passes through the gate 28 and the lottery result is not notified immediately, but the variable display of the normal pattern is performed on the display device 40, and a predetermined fluctuation time has passed. By the way, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result is fixedly displayed (lighted or extinguished), and the player is notified of the lottery result.

The first big winning device (first attacker) 31 is arranged on the upper right side of the first start opening 20 in the game area 3, and includes the first big winning opening 30, the V area 39, the non-V area 70, and the V opening/closing. A member 71 is provided. The first big winning hole 30 has an opening/closing member 32 that permits or inhibits reception of game balls by a swing-type opening/closing operation. The opening/closing member 32 is driven by a first grand prize winning solenoid 33 (FIG. 3). A game ball can enter the first big winning hole 30 when the opening/closing member 32 is in an open state.

The first big prize winning device 31 has a V area (specific area) 39, a V area sensor 39a (FIG. 3), a non-V area (non-specific area) 70, and a non-V area sensor 70a (FIG. 3). , a first prize winning hole sensor 30a (FIG. 3), a V opening/closing member 71, and a V opening/closing member solenoid 73 (FIG. 3).

The V area (specified area) 39 and the non-V area (non-specified area) 70 are configured as areas inside the first big winning device 31 through which game balls that have passed through the first big winning hole 30 can pass. . The first big winning hole sensor 30 a is arranged upstream of the V area 39 and the non-V area 70 and detects the winning of the game ball into the first big winning hole 30 . The V area sensor 39 a is arranged in the V area 39 and detects passage of a game ball to the V area 39 . The non-V area sensor 70 a is arranged in the non-V area 70 and detects passage of a game ball to the non-V area 70 .

The V opening/closing member 71 distributes the game ball that has passed through the first big winning hole 30 to either the V area 39 or the non-V area 70 . The V opening/closing member solenoid 73 drives the V opening/closing member 71 . The V opening/closing member 71 is configured to rotate (clockwise and counterclockwise with respect to the game board 2), and when the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is energized, it rotates counterclockwise from the origin position to release the game ball. A first state (rotating state) in which the ball is distributed to the V area 39 is entered, and a second state (stopped state) in which the game ball is positioned at the origin and distributed to the non-V area 70 is entered when the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is not energized. . In addition, the V opening and closing member 71 is not limited to rotational movement, and may have a function of distributing the game ball that has passed through the first big winning hole 30 to either the V area 39 or the non-V area 70. For example, It may be configured to move in the front-rear direction with respect to the game board 2 . That is, when the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is energized, it is in a retracted state (first state) in which game balls are distributed to the V area 39, and when the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is not energized, it is in an advanced state in which game balls are distributed to the non-V area 70. (Second state).

The first big winning device 31 of the present embodiment further includes a first big winning device discharge sensor 31a (FIG. 3) that counts the number of game balls discharged from the first big winning device 31. FIG. The first big winning device ejection sensor 31a is provided at a point where the V area 39 and the non-V area 70 merge downstream, and counts the number of game balls that have passed through the V area sensor 39a or the non-V area sensor 70a.

The second big winning device (second attacker) 36 is arranged above and to the right of the first big winning hole 30 in the game area 3 and has the second big winning hole 35 . The second big winning hole 35 has an opening/closing member 37 that inhibits or permits reception of game balls by a swing-type opening/closing operation. The opening/closing member 37 is driven by a second prize winning opening solenoid 38 (FIG. 3). A game ball can enter the second big winning hole 35 when the opening/closing member 37 is in an open state. Winning to the second big winning hole 35 is detected by the second big winning hole sensor 35a. The second big winning device 36 of the present embodiment further includes a second big winning device discharge sensor 36a (FIG. 3) for counting the number of game balls discharged from the second big winning device 36. FIG.

The general winning opening 27 is provided in the lower part of the game area 3 . The out port 16 is provided in the lower part of the game area 3, and discharges out of the game area 3 game balls that have not won any prize winning openings. The display 40 is arranged near the center on the right side of the game board 2 .

The game area 3 includes a left game area 3A on the left side of the center in the horizontal direction and a right game area 3B on the right side. A hitting method of shooting a game ball so that the game ball flows down the left game area 3A is called "left hitting". On the other hand, the hitting method of shooting the game ball so that the game ball flows down the right game area 3B is called "right hitting". In the game machine 1, it is possible to aim for a prize at the first start hole 20 by hitting to the left. On the other hand, it is configured so that it is possible to aim to pass through the gate 28 and win prizes in the second start hole 21, the first big prize hole 30, and the second big prize hole 35 by hitting to the right.

In the gaming machine 1, when a game ball enters the first start port 20 or the second start port 21 (entering a ball), the value (numerical information) of various random numbers such as winning random numbers obtained for the winning is , It is temporarily stored in the special figure reservation storage area 84e (FIG. 5). Specifically, if it is a prize to the first start port 20, it is stored in the first special figure reservation storage area (FIG. 5) as a first special figure reservation, and if it is a prize to the second start opening 21, It is stored in the second special figure reservation storage area (FIG. 5) as the second special figure reservation. There is an upper limit to the number of special figure reservations that can be stored in each special figure reservation storage area 84e, and the upper limit in this embodiment is the first special figure reservation storage area and the second special figure reservation storage area. It has become. The special figure reservation stored in the special figure reservation storage area 84e is consumed when the variable display of the special symbol based on the special figure reservation becomes possible. "Digestion of special figure reservation" refers to determining the hit random number etc. corresponding to the special figure reservation and executing variable display of special symbols for showing the determination result. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1, when the variable display of the special symbols based on the winning of the game ball to the first start port 20 or the second start port 21 cannot be performed immediately after the winning, that is, the execution of the variable display of the special symbols. Even if a prize is won during execution of a special game, the right of a jackpot lottery for the prize can be reserved with a predetermined number as the upper limit.

In the gaming machine 1, when the game ball passes through the gate 28, the value of the normal symbol random number obtained for the passage is temporarily stored as a normal pattern reservation in the normal pattern reservation storage area 84f (FIG. 5). . There is an upper limit to the number of normal pattern reservations that can be stored in the general pattern reservation storage area 84f, and the upper limit value in this embodiment is four. The normal pattern reservation stored in the normal pattern reservation storage area 84f is extinguished when the variable display of the normal pattern based on the normal pattern reservation becomes possible. Digestion of the normal pattern reservation means that the normal pattern random number corresponding to the normal pattern reservation is determined, and the variable display of the normal pattern for showing the determination result is executed. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1, when the variable display of the normal symbols based on the passage of the game ball through the gate 28 cannot be performed immediately after the passage, that is, during the execution of the variable display of the normal symbols or during the execution of the auxiliary game, a prize is won. Even if there is, it is possible to reserve the right of the normal symbol lottery for the passage, with a predetermined number as the upper limit.

2. Electrical Configuration of Game Machine The electrical configuration of the game machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4. FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the main control board side of the gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the sub-control board side of the gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. The gaming machine 1 includes a main control board 80 (FIG. 2), a sub control board 90 (FIG. 4), an image control board 100 (FIG. 4), a lamp control board 107 (FIG. 4), and an audio control board 106 ( 4), a payout control board 110 (FIG. 2), and a power supply board 116 (FIG. 2).

The main control board 80 is a game control board that controls game profits such as jackpot lottery and game state transition, and constitutes a main control unit. The sub-control board 90 is an effect control board that controls effects to be executed as the game progresses, and constitutes a sub-control section together with the image control board 100, the lamp control board 107, and the sound control board 106. It should be noted that the sub-control section can be configured as long as it includes at least the sub-control board 90 .

The main control board 80 includes a game control microcomputer 81 and an input/output circuit 87 . The game control microcomputer 81 is a one-chip microcomputer mounted on the main control board 80, and controls the progress of the game of the gaming machine 1 according to a program. The game control microcomputer 81 transmits and receives data to and from other boards and the like via an input/output circuit (I/O port section) 87 . The input/output circuit 87 may be built in the game control microcomputer 81 .

A sensor/solenoid 44 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87 . The sensor/solenoid 44 is a general term for various sensors and solenoids. The sensors include, as shown in FIG. 3, a first start sensor 20a, a second start sensor 21a, a gate sensor 28a, a first big prize sensor 30a, a second big prize sensor 35a, and a V area sensor 39a. , a non-V area sensor 70a, a normal winning opening sensor 27a, a first big winning device discharge sensor 31a, and a second big winning device discharge sensor 36a.

The first starting hole sensor 20 a is provided inside the first starting hole 20 and detects a game ball that has entered the first starting hole 20 . The second starting hole sensor 21 a is provided inside the second starting hole 21 and detects a game ball that has entered the second starting hole 21 . The gate sensor 28 a is provided inside the gate 28 and detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 28 . The first big winning hole sensor 30 a is provided inside the first big winning hole 30 and detects a game ball that has won the first big winning hole 30 . The second big winning hole sensor 35 a is provided inside the second big winning hole 35 and detects a game ball that has won the second big winning hole 35 . The V area sensor 39 a is provided in the V area 39 and detects a game ball that has passed through the V area 39 . The non-V area sensor 70 a is provided in the non-V area 70 and detects a game ball that has passed through the non-V area 70 . The normal winning hole sensor 27 a is provided inside the normal winning hole 27 and detects a game ball that has entered the normal winning hole 27 . The first big winning device discharge sensor 31 a detects a game ball discharged from the first big winning device 31 . The second big winning device discharge sensor 36 a detects a game ball discharged from the second big winning device 36 .

As the solenoids, as shown in FIG. 3, the electric tuning solenoid 24, the first big winning opening solenoid 33, the second big winning opening solenoid 38, and the V open/close member solenoid 73 are exemplified.
The electric chew solenoid 24 drives the movable member 23 of the electric chew 22 . The first big winning opening solenoid 33 drives the opening/closing member 32 of the first big winning device 31 . The second big prize opening solenoid 38 drives the opening/closing member 37 of the second big prize winning device 36 . The V opening/closing member solenoid 73 drives the V opening/closing member 71 .

A display 40 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87 . The game control microcomputer 81 performs display control of the display device 40 .
An external terminal board 70 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87 . The main control board 80, for the external terminal plate 70, the winning ball information, the opening information of the door or frame, the number of fluctuations of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start port 20, the second start port 21 It outputs a winning game ball, whether or not a jackpot is in progress, a security signal, and the like.

A payout control board 110 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87 . The main control board 80 transmits various commands to the payout control board 110 and receives signals from the payout control board 110 for payout monitoring.
A prize ball payout device 120 , a rental ball payout device 130 and a card unit 135 are connected to the payout control board 110 .

A power supply board 116 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87 . The main control board 80 operates with power supplied from the power supply board 116 and distributes the power to other boards (not shown). A launching device 112 is also connected via a power supply board 116 .

A sub control board 90 ( FIG. 4 ) is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87 . The main control board 80 transmits various commands to the sub control board 90 . The connection between the main control board 80 and the sub control board 90 is a unidirectional communication connection that allows only transmission of signals from the main control board 80 to the sub control board 90 . That is, between the main control board 80 and the sub-control board 90, a unidirectional circuit (for example, a circuit using a diode) (not shown) is interposed as communication direction control means.

The sub-control board 90 includes a production control microcomputer 91 and an input/output circuit 95 . The effect control microcomputer 91 is a one-chip microcomputer mounted on the sub-control board 90, and controls the game effect of the game machine 1 according to a program. The effect control microcomputer 91 transmits and receives data to and from other boards and the like via an input/output circuit 95 . The input/output circuit 95 may be built in the effect control microcomputer 91 . An image control board 100 , an audio control board 106 , a lamp control board 107 and a relay board 108 are connected to the sub control board 90 via an input/output circuit 95 .

The image control board 100 performs display control of the image display device 7 according to a program. In the CPU unit of the image control board 100, in addition to programs for performing display control, still image data and moving image data to be displayed on the image display device 7, specifically characters, items, graphics, characters, numbers and Image data such as symbols (including performance patterns) and background images are stored.

A speaker 67 is connected to the audio control board 106 , and based on commands received from the main control board 80 , the effect control microcomputer 91 outputs sounds, music, and sound effects from the speaker 67 via the audio control board 106 . etc. is output.

The frame lamp 66 and the board lamp 5 are connected to the lamp control board 107 to control them.

The relay board 108 includes an effect button 63, a select button 68, a frame movable body 600,
is connected. The effect button 63 outputs a switch signal to the sub-control board 90 via the relay board 108 when pressed (depressed) by the player. Also, the effect control microcomputer 91 operates the effect button 63 based on the command received from the main control board 80 . The production button 63 is not only pressable, but also position-changeable between a normal position (recessed position) in which the upper surface of the button body part slightly protrudes, and a protruding position in which most of the button body part protrudes. It's becoming That is, the production button 63 is raised as one of the productions. The select button 68 outputs a switch signal to the sub-control board 90 via the relay board 108 when pressed (depressed) by the player.

The effect control microcomputer 91 operates the frame movable body 600 based on the command received from the main control board 80 . The frame movable body 600 is a movable so-called gimmick provided on the upper portion of the front frame 53 (FIG. 1). The effect control microcomputer 91 creates motion pattern data (driving data) that determines the motion mode of the frame movable body 600, and controls the motion of the frame movable body 600 according to the motion pattern data. Data stored in the sub ROM 93 is used to create the operation pattern data. The relay board 108 may be connected to a touch sensor or the like provided on the front frame 53 and outputting a detection signal upon contact with a human body.

3. Data Structure of Gaming Machine The data structure of the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5A is a diagram for explaining a table stored in the main ROM 83 of the game control microcomputer 81. FIG. FIG. 5B is a diagram for explaining storage areas provided in the main RAM 84 of the game control microcomputer 81. As shown in FIG. FIG. 5(C) is a diagram for explaining a table stored in the sub ROM 93 of the effect control microcomputer 91. As shown in FIG. FIG. 5D is a diagram for explaining a storage area provided in the sub-RAM 94 of the effect control microcomputer 91. As shown in FIG.

A table storage area 83a is provided in the main ROM 83 (FIG. 5A). In this table storage area 83a, there are a jackpot determination table, a reach determination table, a normal symbol hit determination table, a normal symbol variation pattern determination table, a jackpot type determination table, a variation pattern determination table, an electronic chew open pattern determination table, and a large winning opening open. A pattern determination table, etc. are stored. These determination tables are referred to by the game control microcomputer 81 in main control main processing (described later) executed by the game control microcomputer 81 .

The main RAM 84 (FIG. 5(B)) includes a command set area 84a, a flag set area 84b, a counter set area 84c, a special action status set area 84d, a special figure pending storage area 84e, and a normal figure pending storage. A region 84f is provided.

The command set area 84a is an area (output buffer) in which a command to be output from the main control unit side to the sub control unit side is set in the main control main processing (described later), and is a pre-determining command, a pending pitch command, A variation start command, a variation stop command, an opening command, a round designation command, an ending command, a game state designation command, etc. are set.

The flag set area 84b is an area in which flags indicating the state of the gaming machine and the game state are set in the main control main process (described later), and a big hit flag, a small hit flag, a time saving flag and the like are set.

The counter set area 84c is an area where counters used in main control main processing (described later) are set, such as a random number counter, a round counter, and a time saving counter.

The special action status set area 84d is an area in which a status is set for special action processing, which will be described later.

The special figure reservation storage area 84e includes a first special figure reservation storage area in which the first special figure reservation is stored and a second special figure reservation storage area in which the second special figure reservation is stored. In the first special figure reservation storage area, a random number group (reservation information) such as a random number per special symbol corresponding to the first, second, third, and fourth of the first special figure reservation is stored. A first storage area, a second storage area, a third storage area, and a fourth storage area are provided for this purpose. In the second special figure reservation storage area, the first memory for storing the random number group (reservation information) corresponding to the first, second, third, and fourth of the second special figure reservation A second storage area, a third storage area, and a fourth storage area are provided.

The general pattern reservation storage area 84f stores random number groups (reservation information) such as normal pattern random numbers (hit random numbers) corresponding to the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th general pattern reservations. A first storage area, a second storage area, a third storage area, and a fourth storage area are provided.

A table storage area 93a is provided in the sub ROM 93 (FIG. 5(C)). The table storage area 93a stores a look-ahead effect pattern determination table, a basic effect pattern determination table, a chance-up effect pattern determination table, a stop symbol pattern determination table, and the like. These determination tables are referred to by the effect control microcomputer 91 in sub-control main processing (described later) executed by the effect control microcomputer 91 .

The sub-RAM 94 (FIG. 5(D)) is provided with a command storage area 94a, an effect command set area 94b, a counter set area 94c, and a work area 94d. The command storage area 94a is an area (input buffer) in which commands input from the main control unit side are stored in the sub-control main process (described later), and is a pre-determination command, a pending ball number command, a variation start command, a variation A stop command, an opening command, a round designation command, an ending command, a game state designation command, etc. are stored. The effect command set area 94b is an area ( It is an output buffer), and a variable production start command, a command before the end of fluctuation, a variable production end command, an opening production start command, a round production start command, an ending production start command, etc. are set. The counter set area 94c is an area where the counter used in the sub-control main process (described later) is set, and includes a random number counter, a first special figure pending effect counter, a second special figure pending effect counter, a general figure pending effect counter. , Time saving production counter etc. are set. The work area 94d is a work area that implements temporary storage for calculation and the like. The areas other than the work area 94d are backed up by a power source (not shown), and retain their contents even when the gaming machine 1 is powered off.

Various random numbers acquired by the game control microcomputer 81 in the gaming machine 1 will now be described.
The game control microcomputer 81 is configured to acquire a "win random number", a "jackpot type random number", a "reach random number", a "fluctuation pattern random number", and a "normal symbol random number" at timings to be described later. ing.
The “win random number” is a random number used for lottery (jackpot determination) to determine whether or not a big win has occurred, and takes a value ranging from 0 to 65,535.
The “jackpot type random number” is a random number used for the lottery (jackpot type determination) of the type of the winning jackpot, and takes a value in the range of 0-127.
"Reach random number" is a random number used to determine whether or not to generate a reach in the effect symbol variation effect that indicates the result when the big hit determination is a loss, and is a value in the range of 0 to 127. take. Reach is a state in which only one of the plurality of production patterns (decorative patterns) that is variably displayed remains. It is a state (for example, the state of "7↓7") that is a combination of performance symbols indicating a jackpot winning. In addition, the effect symbol that is stopped and displayed in the ready-to-win state may be displayed as if it is shaking within the display screen 7a.

“Variation pattern random number” is a random number used to determine a variation pattern including variation time, and takes a value in the range of 0-127.
The "normal symbol random number" is used for a lottery (normal symbol lottery) for determining whether or not to perform an auxiliary game for opening the electric chew 22. - 特許庁The normal symbol random number takes a value in the range of 0-255.
The “hit random number”, the “jackpot type random number”, the “reach random number”, and the “variation pattern random number” are obtained based on the ball entering the starting port (first starting port 20 or second starting port 21). The random value group obtained based on the entry into the first start port 20 is stored in the first special figure reservation storage area, and the random value group obtained based on the entry into the second start port 21 is stored in the first 2 It is stored in the special figure reservation storage area. “Normal symbol random number (hit random number)” is acquired based on passing through the gate 28 . The acquired normal symbol random number value is stored in the normal symbol reservation storage area 84f.

Next, various random numbers acquired by the effect control microcomputer 91 in the gaming machine 1 will be described.
The effect control microcomputer 91 is configured to acquire a "read-ahead effect random number", a "chance-up random number", and an "effect random number".

"Read-ahead effect random number" is a random number obtained as a value of the look-ahead effect counter set in the counter set area 94c and used to determine the look-ahead effect at the time of the variable effect. take. The "read-ahead effect random number" is acquired based on the output of a pre-determination command from the main control section to the sub-control section.

The “chance-up random number” is a random number used for determining the chance-up effect during the variable effect, and takes a value in the range of 0-127. The "chance-up random number" is acquired based on the output of a variation start command from the main control section to the sub-control section. The acquired random number value is stored in the sub-RAM 94 .

4. Description of Various Tables FIG. 6 is a diagram for describing the hit determination table.
The hit determination table indicates whether the hit random number value (one of 0 to 65535) acquired by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main process (described later) corresponds to a "big win" or a "small win". , is a table referred to for determining whether or not it corresponds to "losing".

In the first special symbol, if the hit random value is "0 to 409", it is determined as "big hit", and if the hit random value is "a number other than 0 to 409", it is determined as "losing". It is shown that

In the second special symbol, when the winning random number is ``0 to 409'', it is determined as a ``big hit'', and when the winning random number is ``600 to 9599'', it is determined as a ``small winning'', and the winning random number is determined as is "a numerical value other than 0 to 409 and 600 to 9599", it is determined as "losing".

The reach determination table indicates whether the reach random number (one of 0 to 127) acquired by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main process (described later) corresponds to "with reach" or "without reach". It is a table referred to for determining. The reach determination in the reach determination table is performed based on the gaming state of the gaming machine 1. FIG. In this embodiment, in the "non-time saving state", if the reach random number is "0 to 13", it is determined that there is a reach, and the reach random number is a number other than "0 to 13 (14 to 127) , it is determined that there is no reach. Also, in the "time saving state", if the reach random number is "0 to 5", it is determined that there is reach, and if the reach random number is "a number other than 0 to 5 (6 to 127)" is determined to be "no reach".

In the normal symbol hit determination table, the normal symbol random number value (one of 0 to 255) acquired by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main process (described later) corresponds to "win" or "loss". This table is referenced to determine whether Determination in the normal symbol hitting determination table is performed based on the game state of the gaming machine 1 . In this embodiment, in the "non-time saving state", if the normal symbol random number is "0 to 2", it is determined to be "hit", and the normal symbol random number is a numerical value other than "0 to 2 (3 to 255 )”, it is determined as “losing”. Also, in the "time saving state", if the normal symbol random number is "0 to 254", it is determined as "hit", and if the normal symbol random number is "a number other than 0 to 254 (255)" , is determined to be "losing".

In the normal symbol variation pattern determination table, the game control microcomputer 81 determines how many seconds the normal symbol variation time is according to the game state (whether it is a non-time saving state or a time saving state) in the main control main process (described later). is a table referenced for In this embodiment, the variation time of normal symbols is determined to be "30 seconds" in the "non-time-saving state", and the variation time of normal symbols is determined to be "1 second" in the "time-saving state".

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a jackpot type determination table. The jackpot type determination table is referred to in order to determine the “jackpot type” according to the jackpot type random number value (any of 0 to 127) acquired by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main process (described later). It is a table where

When winning in the lottery of the first special symbol (special figure 1), it is determined as "4R one kind jackpot (short time once)" regardless of the jackpot type random number.
When winning in the lottery of the second special pattern (special figure 2), if it is a one-class jackpot, it is determined as "10R one-class jackpot (7 times short time)". If it is a two-type jackpot, if the jackpot type random number is "0 to 76", it is determined as "10R two-type jackpot (shorter time 7 times)", and if the jackpot type random number is "77 to 127" It is judged as "4R two types of jackpot (short time 7 times)".

The first big win is a big win that is determined as a big win in the winning determination process, and the second big win is a V area inside the first big winning device 31 after it is determined as a small win in the winning determination process. It is a jackpot that becomes a jackpot by passing 39.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the variation pattern determination table in the non-time saving state. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the variation pattern determination table during the time saving state. The variation pattern determination table is a table that is referred to for determining the variation pattern according to the variation pattern random number value (0 to 127) acquired by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main process (described later).

Winning the first start port 20 in a non-time saving state, it is determined as "losing" in the jackpot determination table, it is determined as "with reach" in the reach determination table, the number of pending balls is "1 to 2", and the variation pattern If the random number is "0 to 60", the variation pattern is "P4"
It is shown that it is determined that

In the time saving state, other than the time saving final change, a change pattern determination table (time saving change) is used (upper part of FIG. 9). In the time saving final variation, a variation pattern determination table (time saving final variation) is used (bottom of FIG. 9). In addition, in the time saving state, the variation pattern is selected regardless of the variation pattern random number value and the number of retained balls.

In particular, in the variation pattern determination table (time saving final variation), the variation pattern P51 is selected when the determination result based on the winning to the second starting port 21 is hit. On the other hand, when the determination result based on the winning to the second starting port 21 is a loss, the variation pattern P52 is selected. Below, the fluctuation patterns P51 and P52 are also referred to as final fluctuation effect patterns.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, once the variation pattern is determined, the variation time is also determined. In addition, when it becomes reach, it is also determined whether the reach becomes normal reach or super reach (SP reach). Super reach is a reach production with a longer fluctuation time after reach than normal reach. Here, three types of super reach (SP1, SP2, SP3) with different fluctuation times are set. SP1-3 are executed progressively through normal reach. The difference between SP1-3 may be, for example, the presence or absence of pseudo-reams.

The electric chew opening pattern determination table is referred to by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main process (described later) in order to determine the opening pattern of the electric chew 22 according to the game state (whether it is a non-time saving state or a time saving state). It is a table where In this embodiment, the opening pattern of the electric tube 22 is determined as "opening pattern 11" in the "non-time saving state", and the opening pattern is determined as "opening pattern 12" in the "time saving state". In the opening pattern 11, the power tube 22 is opened once for 0.2 seconds. In the opening pattern 12, the electric tube 22 is opened three times, with an opening time of 2.0 seconds per time, and an interval (opening interval) of 1.0 second. However, the opening of the electric chew 22 is closed even if the opening time remains when a predetermined number of game balls have won a prize (prescribed number of winning prizes, maximum 10).

The large winning opening pattern determination table is a table that the game control microcomputer 81 refers to in order to determine the opening patterns of the first large winning opening 30 and the second large winning opening 35 in the main control process (described later). be.

In the case of "4R 1st class jackpot", in the 1st to 4th rounds, the second big winning port 35 is opened once for 29.5 seconds for a long time.
In the case of "10R 1st class jackpot", the second big winning port 35 is opened once for 29.5 seconds in the 1st to 10th rounds.
In the case of the "10R two-type jackpot", the first big prize-winning port 30 is opened 5 times with an opening time of 0.3 seconds in the 1st round, and in the 2nd to 10th rounds, the number of openings is 1 and the opening time is 29.5 seconds. A long opening of the second big winning opening 35 for 5 seconds is performed.
In the case of "4R 2 types of jackpot", in the 1st R, the first big prize-winning port 30 is opened 5 times with an opening time of 0.3 seconds. A long opening of the second big winning opening 35 for 5 seconds is performed.
However, if a predetermined number of game balls wins (regular number of wins, maximum 9), it will be closed even if the open time remains.

5. Explanation of jackpots, etc. In the gaming machine 1, jackpots include a first-class jackpot and a second-class jackpot. A kind of jackpot is a case where the obtained hit random number corresponds to a "jackpot". On the other hand, the two types of jackpots
This is the case where the acquired winning random number value corresponds to a "small winning", and then the game ball passes through the V area 39 in the first big winning device 31, resulting in a big winning.

In addition, when a jackpot is achieved, a “jackpot game” is executed. A jackpot game is an example of a special game. The jackpot game includes multiple round games (unit open games), an opening (OP) before the first round game starts, and an ending (ED) after the final round game ends. there is Each round begins with the end of the opening or the end of the previous round and ends with the beginning of the next round. The closing time (interval time) of the big winning opening between round games is included in the open round game before closing.

6. Explanation of Game State The game state of the gaming machine 1 will be explained. The game control microcomputer 81 is capable of executing “fluctuation time shortening control” for the special symbols displayed on the display device 40 . The state in which the game control microcomputer 81 performs variable time shortening control on the special symbols on the display 40 is called a "time saving state", and the state in which the variable time shortening control is not performed is called a "non-time saving state (normal state)". . In the time saving state, the fluctuation time of the special symbol (the time from the start of the fluctuation display to the time of derivation display of the display result) is shorter than the non-time saving state. The game control microcomputer 81 uses a variation pattern determination table (FIGS. 8 and 9) that is determined so that a variation pattern with a short variation time is selected more frequently in the time saving state than in the non-time saving state. The variation pattern is determined. That is, when the game control microcomputer 81 executes the variable time shortening control for the special symbol, the variable display of the special symbol is shorter as the variable time than when the variable time shortening control is not performed. Variable time is more likely to be selected. As a result, in the time-saving state, the pace of digestion of the special figure reservation becomes faster, and the effective winning to the starting opening (the winning that can be stored as the special figure reservation) is likely to occur. As a result, it is possible to aim for a big hit under the smooth progress of the game.

The game control microcomputer 81 executes probability variation control and variation time shortening control for normal symbols in parallel with variation time shortening control for special symbols. That is, the game control microcomputer 81 normally executes the probability fluctuation control and the fluctuation time shortening control for the symbol in the case of the time saving state, and does not execute it in the case of the non-time saving state.

The game control microcomputer 81 uses a normal symbol hit determination table in which the number of normal symbol random numbers (hit random numbers) determined to be hit is larger in the time saving state than in the non-time saving state as the normal symbol probability fluctuation control. Then, hit judgment (ordinary design judgment) is performed. Therefore, in the time saving state, the probability of winning is higher than in the normal symbol normal probability state. That is, when the game control microcomputer 81 is executing the probability variation control for the normal symbols, the display result of the variable display of the normal symbols by the display 40 is compared with the case where the probability variation control is not performed. The probability that the (stop symbol) becomes a winning symbol increases.

In the time saving state, the fluctuation time of the normal pattern is shorter than the non-working time saving state. Here, the variation time of the normal pattern is 30 seconds in the non-time saving state, but is 1 second in the time saving state. Furthermore, in the time-saving state, the opening time of the electric chew 22 in the auxiliary game is longer than in the non-time-saving state. That is, the game control microcomputer 81 is executing opening time extension control for the electric chew 22 . In addition, in the time-saving state, the number of times the electric chew 22 is opened in the auxiliary game is greater than in the non-time-saving state. That is, the game control microcomputer 81 is executing the control for increasing the number of times of opening the electric chew 22 .

game control microcomputer 81, probability variation control and variation time shortening control for the normal pattern of the display 40, and under the circumstances that are executing the opening time extension control and opening times increase control for the electric chew 22, these Compared to the case where the control is not executed, the electric chew 22 is opened more frequently, and the game balls enter the second starting port 21 more frequently. As a result, the base, which is the ratio of the number of balls awarded to the number of balls fired, increases. Therefore, the state in which these controls are executed is called the "high base state", and the state in which they are not executed is called the "low base state". In the high base state, you can aim for a big hit without greatly reducing the number of game balls you have. Note that the high base state is a state in which so-called electric support control (control for supporting winning to the second starting port 21 by the electric chew 22) is being executed.

The high base state (electric sapo control state) does not have to execute all of the above controls. That is, one or more of the probability variation control for the normal pattern of the display device 40, the variation time shortening control for the normal pattern of the display device 40, the opening time extension control for the electric chew 22, and the opening number increasing control for the electric chew 22 By executing the control, it is sufficient that the electric tube 22 is more easily opened than when the control is not executed. Further, the high base state (electrical support control state) may be independently controlled without accompanying the time saving state.

In the high base state, the game can be progressed more advantageously by entering the game ball into the right game area 3B (FIG. 1) by striking to the right. Due to the electric sapo control, it is easier to open the electric tube 22 than in the low base state, and it is easier to win the second start opening 21 than the first start opening 20. be. From this, in the high base state, while passing the game ball to the gate 28 which triggers the normal symbol lottery, the game ball is struck to the right to win the game ball to the second start port 21.例文帳に追加As a result, it is possible to obtain a larger number of starting prizes (winning at the starting opening) than when hitting left. In addition, in the gaming machine 1, the game is played by hitting to the right even during the jackpot game.

On the other hand, in the low base state, it is possible to advance the game more advantageously by entering the game ball into the left game area 3A (FIG. 1) by hitting to the left. Since the electric sapo control is not executed, it is difficult to open the electric chew 22 compared to the high base state, and it is easier to win the first start opening 20 than the second start opening 21. This is because For this reason, in the low base state, left-handed hitting is performed in order to win the game ball to the first start hole 20. - 特許庁This allows you to get more starting prizes than hitting right.

7. Operation of Game Control Microcomputer 81 The operation of the game control microcomputer 81 provided on the main control board 80 (FIG. 2) will be described with reference to FIGS. Counters, flags, statuses, buffers, etc. appearing in the description of the operation of the game control microcomputer 81 are provided in the main RAM 84 .

[Main control main processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart of main control main processing. When the game machine 1 is powered on, the game control microcomputer 81 reads a program for executing main control main processing from the main ROM 83 . In the main control main process, the game control microcomputer 81 first performs an initialization process (step S001). In the initialization processing, for example, various flags, statuses, counters, etc. are reset. The initial value of the flag is "0" or "OFF", the initial value of the status is "1", and the initial value of the counter is "0". Note that the initialization process is executed only once after the power is turned on, and is not executed thereafter.

After the initialization process, the game control microcomputer 81 prohibits the interruption of the interruption process (step S002), and performs normal design/special design main random number update process (step S003). In this normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process, the game control microcomputer 81 sets various random number counter values (hit random number, jackpot type random number, reach random number, variation pattern random number, normal symbol random number) to 1. Add and update. When each random number counter value reaches the set upper limit value, it returns to "0" and is added again. The initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0", or may be changed randomly. Also, each random number may be a so-called hardware random number generated using a known random number generating circuit such as a counter IC.

After the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process, the game control microcomputer 81 permits the interruption of the interruption process (step S004). While interrupts are enabled, it is possible to execute main-side timer interrupt processing (step S005). The main-side timer interrupt processing is executed based on interrupt pulses that are repeatedly input at a predetermined cycle (eg, 4 msec cycle). That is, the main-side timer interrupt processing is executed at predetermined intervals (for example, 4 msec intervals). Then, after the main side timer interrupt processing is finished, until the next main side timer interrupt processing is started, the update processing of various counter values by the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update processing is repeatedly executed. . If an interrupt pulse is input while interrupts are disabled, the main-side timer interrupt processing is not started immediately, but is started after interrupts are enabled.

[Main-side timer interrupt processing]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart of main-side timer interrupt processing (FIG. 10: step S005). In the main timer interrupt process, the game control microcomputer 81 first performs random number update process (step S101). Specifically, the game control microcomputer 81 updates various random number counter values. This random number update process is the same as the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process performed in the main control main process (FIG. 10) described above. That is, the processing for updating the various random number counter values consists of the execution period of the main-side timer interrupt processing and the other period (the period from the end of the main-side timer interrupt processing to the start of the next main-side timer interrupt processing). and both.

After the random number update process, the game control microcomputer 81 performs an input process (step S102). In the input process, the game control microcomputer 81 reads detection signals detected by various sensors attached to the gaming machine 1, and outputs payout data for paying out prize balls according to the type of winning hole to the main RAM 84. set in the buffer. The various sensors are, for example, a first starting opening sensor 20a, a second starting opening sensor 21a, a first large winning opening sensor 30a, a second large winning opening sensor 35a, and a normal winning opening sensor 27a (FIG. 3).

After the input process, the game control microcomputer 81 performs a starting opening sensor detection process (step S103). In the starting opening sensor detection process, the game control microcomputer 81 determines the passage of the game ball through the gate 28, acquires the value of the normal symbol random number counter, stores the acquired random number in the normal symbol reservation storage area 84f of the main RAM 84. Among the first to fourth storage areas, it is stored in a storage area corresponding to the current number of normal symbol reserved balls. In addition, the game control microcomputer 81 determines the winning of the game ball to the first start port 20, and determines the value of the winning random number counter, the value of the jackpot type random number counter, the value of the reach random number counter, and the value of the variation pattern random number counter. get. The game control microcomputer 81 stores the obtained random value group in a storage area corresponding to the current special figure 1 reserved ball number among the first to fourth storage areas of the first special figure reserved storage area. Furthermore, the game control microcomputer 81 determines the winning of the game ball to the second start port 21, the value of the hit random number counter, the value of the jackpot type random number counter, the value of the reach random number counter, the value of the fluctuation pattern random number counter. to get The game control microcomputer 81 stores the acquired random value group in a storage area corresponding to the current special figure 2 reservation ball number among the first to fourth storage areas of the second special figure reservation storage area.

The game control microcomputer 81 performs a jackpot prior determination in the starting opening sensor detection process. Based on the above-described random number group, it is determined in advance whether or not it is a jackpot, and if it is a jackpot, the type of jackpot and the variation pattern. Then, a pre-determination command is created from the pre-determination result and set in the command set area 84 a of the main RAM 84 .

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs normal operation processing (step S104). In normal operation processing, the game control microcomputer 81 controls the operation of the electric chew 22 . Specifically, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the number of reserved balls of normal symbols is "0". Make a hit judgment. Next, the game control microcomputer 81 selects a variation pattern with reference to the normal symbol variation pattern determination table. The game control microcomputer 81 sets the selected normal symbol variation pattern to start the normal symbol variation display. After that, the variable display is stopped, and in the case of "hit", the electric chew opening pattern determination table is referred to, the electric chew opening pattern is set, and the electric chew 22 is operated.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs special operation processing (step S105). This special action process will be described later.
Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs V area sensor detection processing (step S106). In the V area sensor detection process, the game control microcomputer 81 first determines whether or not the game ball has been detected by the V area sensor 39a, and if there is detection, determines whether or not it is during the V valid period. is performed, and if it is during the V effective period, the V flag is turned ON and the V passage command is set.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs a reserved ball number process (step S107). The game control microcomputer 81 first reads out the special figure 1 reserved ball number, the special figure 2 reserved ball number, and the normal symbol reserved ball number stored in the main RAM 84 . Next, the game control microcomputer 81 sets a reserved ball number command in the command set area (output buffer) 84a of the main RAM 84. FIG. The number of reserved balls command is a command for notifying the number of reserved balls to the sub-control board 90, and includes information on the number of special figure 1 reserved balls, the number of special figure 2 reserved balls, and the number of normal symbol reserved balls. .

After the reserved ball number processing, the game control microcomputer 81 performs output processing (step S108). In the output process, the game control microcomputer 81 outputs to the sub-control board 90 the commands set in the command set area 84a of the main RAM 84 in each process described above. After the output process, the game control microcomputer 81 performs other processes (step S109). In the other processing, for example, based on the number of special-figure 2 reserved balls, which will be described later, the display 40 is controlled to display the number, and based on the number of special-figure 1 reserved balls, the display 40 is displayed to indicate the number. control in a manner.

[Special action processing]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart of special operation processing (FIG. 12: step S105). Here, the processing relating to the display device 40 and the big winning device (the first big winning device 31 and the second big winning device 36) is divided into four stages, and each stage corresponds to a "special operation status" of "1", "2", respectively. , 3, 4, 5. When the "special action status" is "1" (step S1301: YES), the game control microcomputer 81 performs a special symbol standby process (step S1302). In the special symbol standby process, big hit determination, variation pattern selection, and the like are executed.

When the "special action status" is "2" (step S1301: NO, step S1303: YES), special symbol fluctuation processing is performed (step S1304). In the special symbol fluctuation process, the output of the fluctuation stop command and the like are executed after the fluctuation time has elapsed. Concretely, the game control microcomputer 81 first determines whether or not the fluctuation time of the special symbols has passed and ends. to "3".

When the "special action status" is "3" (steps S1301, S1303: NO, step S1305: YES), special symbol confirmation processing is performed (step S1306). In the special symbol determination process, the game control microcomputer 81 executes the game state management process. The game state management process is a process for managing the number of time reductions. That is, when the time saving state is set, that is, when the time saving flag in the flag set area 84b of the main RAM 84 is ON, the time saving counter in the counter set area 84c is decremented and updated, and the game state designation command is set. The game state designation command includes information such as a time saving flag, a time saving counter, and a time saving continuation counter. At this time, when the time-saving counter becomes "0", the non-time-saving state is set (the time-saving flag is turned OFF). In addition, the time saving continuation counter is also set to "0". The time-saving continuation counter is incremented when the jackpot hits, and indicates the so-called "number of consecutive houses". Next, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the big hit flag and the small hit flag of the flag set area 84b are ON. Set the opening pattern of the winning opening. After the opening pattern is set, the time saving flag is reset and the time saving continuation counter is incremented. After that, if it is a big hit, the special action status is set to "4" and the opening command is set. If it is a small hit, the special operation status is set to "5". On the other hand, when the big hit flag and the small hit flag are OFF, the special action status is set to "1".

When the "special action status" is "4" (steps S1301, S1303, S1305: NO, S1307: YES), a special electric accessary product process (jackpot) is performed (step S1308). In the special electric accessary product process, a jackpot game is executed. Specifically, the opening of the second big winning opening 35 is controlled according to the opening pattern based on the round counter, and the round designation command and the ending command are set. Also, at the end of the jackpot, a time-saving counter is set.

When the "special action status" is "5" (steps S1301, S1303, S1305: NO, S1307: NO), a special electric accessary product process (small hit) is performed (step S1309). In the special electric auditors processing (small hit), a small hit game is executed. Specifically, it controls the opening of the first big winning hole 30 . Then, when the game ball passes through the V area 39 (when the V flag is ON), the special action status is set to "4" and the opening command is set.

[Special symbol standby process]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the special symbol standby process (FIG. 12: step S1302). In the special symbol standby process, the game control microcomputer 81 first determines whether or not the number of special figure 2 reserved balls is "0" (step S1401). If the number of special figure 2 reserved balls is "0" (step S1401: YES), that is, the random value group acquired due to the winning of the second start port 21 is stored in the second special figure reservation storage area If not, the process moves to step S1407. When the number of special-figure 2 reservation balls is "1" or more (step S1401: NO), the game control microcomputer 81 executes a hit determination process (step S1402). The details of the hit determination process will be described later.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 executes variation pattern selection processing (step S1403). In the variation pattern selection process, with reference to the variation pattern determination table (FIGS. 8 and 9), the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 (time saving state or non-time saving state), the determination result of the hit determination process (step S1402), the ball held Select a variation pattern based on the number. After the variation pattern selection process, to decrement the number of special figure 2 pending balls (step S1404).

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 moves the storage location of the pending information (various random numbers) stored in the first to fourth storage areas of the second special figure pending storage area to the side where it is read from the current position. While shifting one, clear the pending information stored in the farthest place from the read side in the second special figure pending storage area (step S1405). For example, when pending information is stored in the first to third storage areas, the pending information stored in the third storage area is cleared, and pending information is stored in the first to fourth storage areas. If so, clear the pending information stored in the fourth storage area. By the above steps, the second special figure reservation is digested in the order in which it was reserved. In this case, on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7, the reserved image 9B (of the four reserved images 9B, the leftmost reserved image 9B) corresponding to the first storage area of the second special figure reserved storage area is reserved. It shifts to the digested image display area side and is displayed as a pending digested image 9C. In addition, the reserved images 9B corresponding to the second to fourth storage areas of the second special figure reserved storage area (of the four reserved images 9B, the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th reserved images 9B from the left) are each 1 on the left side (Fig. 1). Thereby, the player can recognize that one second special figure reservation has been consumed.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs special figure 2 fluctuation start processing (step S1406). In the special figure 2 fluctuation start process, the fluctuation start command is set in the command set area 84a of the main RAM 84, the fluctuation display of the second special symbol is started, and the fluctuation time timer is set. The variable time timer is set with a variable time determined according to the variable pattern selected in the variable pattern selection process. In addition, the game control microcomputer 81 sets the special action status to "2". In addition, the variation start command (special figure 2 variation start command) set in the special figure 2 variation start process includes information about the special figure stop design data set in the hit determination process (step S1402) and variation pattern selection process ( It contains information on the variation pattern set in step S1403) (including information on variation time).

In step S1401, when the number of special figure 2 reserved balls is "0" (step S1401: YES), the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the number of special figure 1 reserved balls is "0" ( step S1407). If the number of special figure 1 reserved balls is "0" (step S1407: YES), that is, the random value group acquired due to the winning of the first start port 20 is stored in the first special figure reserved storage area If not, the process moves to step S1413. When the number of special figure 1 reserved balls is "1" or more (step S1407: NO), the game control microcomputer 81 executes a hit determination process (step S1408). The details of the hit determination process will be described later.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 executes variation pattern selection processing (step S1409). In the variation pattern selection process, with reference to the variation pattern determination table (FIGS. 8 and 9), the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 (time saving state or non-time saving state), the determination result of the hit determination process (step S1408), the retained ball Select a variation pattern based on the number. After the variation pattern selection process, the number of special figure 1 reserved balls is decremented (step S1410).

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 shifts the storage location of various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage areas of the first special figure reservation storage area to the side where it is read from the current position by one. , Clear the pending information stored in the farthest place from the read side in the first special figure pending storage area (step S1411). By the above steps, the first special figure reservation is digested in the order it was reserved. In this case, on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7, the reserved image 9A (of the four reserved images 9A, the rightmost reserved image 9A) corresponding to the first storage area of the first special figure reserved storage area is reserved. It shifts to the digested image display area side and is displayed as a pending digested image 9C. In addition, reserved images 9A (4
Of the three retained images 9A, the second, third, and fourth retained images 9A from the right are each shifted to the right by one (FIG. 1). Thereby, the player can recognize that one first special figure reservation has been consumed.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs special figure 1 fluctuation start processing (step S1412). In the special figure 1 fluctuation start process, the fluctuation start command is set in the command set area 84a of the main RAM 84, the fluctuation display of the first special symbol is started, and the fluctuation time timer is set. The variable time timer is set with a variable time determined according to the variable pattern selected in the variable pattern selection process. In addition, the game control microcomputer 81 sets the special action status to "2" (step S1412). In addition, the variation start command (special figure 1 variation start command) set in the special figure 1 variation start process includes information about the special figure stop pattern data set in the hit determination process (step S1408) and the variation pattern selection process ( It contains information on the variation pattern (including information on variation time) set in step S1409).

In step S1407, if the number of special-figure 1 reserved balls is "0" (step S1407: YES), the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the display screen 7a of the image display device 7 is a standby screen (step S1413). The standby screen is a demo screen for waiting for customers. The game control microcomputer 81 may determine, for example, by ON/OFF of a demonstration screen display flag for customer waiting. If the standby screen is displayed (step S1413: YES), the process ends. If it is not the standby screen (step S1413: NO), the game control microcomputer 81 waits for the lapse of a predetermined standby time, and sets a customer waiting standby command for displaying the standby screen in the command set area 84a of the main RAM 84. (Step S1414), this processing ends. As described above, according to the special symbol waiting process of the present embodiment, the variable display of the special symbol based on the first special symbol reservation is executed only when the second special symbol reservation is "0". That is, digestion of the second special figure reservation is executed with priority over digestion of the first special figure reservation. In addition, according to the jackpot type determination table of the present embodiment, the lottery based on the second special figure reservation is a jackpot (V passage scheduled jackpot) that is more profitable for the player than the lottery based on the first special figure reservation. It is supposed to be elected.

[Hit determination process]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the hit determination process (FIG. 13: steps S1402 and S1408). Hit determination processing of special figure 2 (step S1402) and hit determination processing of special figure 1 (step S1408) because the flow of processing is the same, it explains collectively.

In the hit determination process, first, the game control microcomputer 81 performs hit determination (step S1501). Hit determination is performed based on the setting information stored in the setting information storage area 84g with reference to the big hit determination table (FIG. 6).

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not it is a big hit (step S1502). If it is determined to be a jackpot here (step S1502: YES), the jackpot flag is turned ON (step S1503), and the process proceeds to step S1506. On the other hand, if it is determined not to be a big hit (step S1502: NO), the process moves to step S1504.

In step S1504, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not it is a small hit. If it is determined to be a small hit here (step S1504: YES), the small hit flag is turned ON (step S1505), and the process proceeds to step S1506. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not a small hit (step S1504: NO), the process of step S1505 is not executed, and the process proceeds to step S1506.

In step S1506, the game control microcomputer 81 performs big hit type determination. In the jackpot type determination, any one of "4R jackpot", "10R jackpot", "10R jackpot", and "4R jackpot" is determined. In the case of a two-type jackpot, the jackpot game is performed after the jackpot game, the first jackpot 30 is opened in the jackpot game, and the second jackpot 35 is opened in the jackpot game after that. Open.

[Special electric accessory processing (small hit)]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart of special electric auditors processing (small hit) (FIG. 12: step S1309).

The game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the condition for closing the first big winning opening 30 is established (step S1601). When the closing condition is met, either one of the entry of a specified number (9) of game balls and the elapse of an opening time of 1.5 seconds (5×0.3 seconds) is met. If it is determined that the conditions for closing the first big winning opening 30 are satisfied (step S1601: YES), the first big winning opening 30 is closed (step S1602), and the process proceeds to step S1604. On the other hand, if it is determined that the condition for closing the first big winning hole 30 is not satisfied (step S1601: NO), the first big winning hole 30 is opened (step S1603), and the process proceeds to step S1605. In addition, when the first big winning hole 30 is already open, it is kept open.

In step S<b>1604 , the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not game balls have been ejected from the first big winning device 31 . This determination is to determine whether or not all the game balls determined as winning by the first big winning hole sensor 30a have been discharged. This process is a process of determining whether or not all the game balls that have entered the first big winning port 30 have been discharged from the first big winning device 31 based on the signal from the first big winning device discharge sensor 31a. If it is determined that all game balls have been discharged (step S1604: YES), the process proceeds to step S1605. On the other hand, while there are game balls that have not been discharged (step S1604: NO), the special electric accessary product process (small hit) is temporarily terminated without executing the subsequent processes.

In step S1605, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the game ball has passed through the V area 39 or not. This determination is made depending on whether or not the V flag in the flag set area 84b of the main RAM 84 is ON. Here, if it is determined that it has passed through the V area (step S1605: YES), set the V passing command, the opening command of the jackpot, set the special operation status to "4" (step S1606), special electric accessories Finish the process (small hit). On the other hand, when it is determined that it has not passed through the V area (step S1605: NO), the operation status is set to "1" (step S1608), and the special electric auditors processing (small hit) ends.

[Sub-control main processing]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing sub-control main processing. When the gaming machine 1 is powered on, the effect control microcomputer 91 reads out a program for executing a sub-control main process from the sub-ROM 93 . In the sub-control main process, the effect control microcomputer 91 first performs an initialization process (step S4000). In the initialization process, for example, settings of the sub CPU 92, resetting of various flags, statuses, counters, and the like are performed. The initial value of the flag is "0" or "OFF", the initial value of the status is "1", and the initial value of the counter is "0". Note that the initialization process is executed only once after the power is turned on, and is not executed thereafter.

After the initialization processing, the effect control microcomputer 91 prohibits interrupt processing (step S4001), and performs random number update processing (step S4002). In this random number update process, the effect control microcomputer 91 adds 1 to the random number counter value shown in FIG. 6(B) and updates it. When each random number counter value reaches the set upper limit value, it returns to "0" and is added again. The initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0", or may be changed randomly. Moreover, the random number may be added by 2 or more instead of adding 1 each time. Each random number may be a so-called hardware random number.

After the random number update process, the effect control microcomputer 91 permits the interruption of the interruption process (step S4003). While interrupts are enabled, sub-side timer interrupt processing (step S4004) can be executed. The sub-side timer interrupt processing is executed based on interrupt pulses that are repeatedly input to the sub CPU 92 at predetermined intervals. That is, the sub-side timer interrupt processing is executed at predetermined intervals. After the sub-side timer interrupt processing ends, the random number update processing is repeatedly executed until the next sub-side timer interrupt processing is started.

[Sub-side timer interrupt processing]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart of sub-side timer interrupt processing (FIG. 16: step S4004). The effect control microcomputer 91 first performs received command analysis processing (step S4100). Details of the received command analysis processing will be described later. After the received command analysis process, the effect control microcomputer 91 performs the process during the variation effect (step S4110). The processing during the variation effect will be described later. After the processing during the variation production, the production control microcomputer 91 performs switch processing (step S4120). After the switch process, the effect control microcomputer 91 performs command transmission process (step S4130). In the command transmission process, the effect control microcomputer 91 transmits various commands set in the effect command set area 94b (output buffer) of the sub-RAM 94 in the received command analysis process, etc. , to the relay board 108 . The image control board 100 that has received various commands uses the image display device 7 to execute a display effect according to the received command. In addition, the audio control board 106 that has received various commands executes an audio effect of outputting audio from the speaker 67 in accordance with the received commands. Upon receiving various commands, the lamp control board 107 executes a lamp effect that controls light emission of the board lamp 5 and the frame lamp 66 according to the received command. After the command transmission process, the effect control microcomputer 91 performs other processes (step S4140), and ends this process. In other processing, random number update processing and the like are performed.

[Receive command analysis processing]
FIG. 18 is a flow chart of the received command analysis process (FIG. 17: step S4100). The effect control microcomputer 91 first determines whether or not a pre-determination command has been received from the main control board 80 (step S4180). If received (step S4180: YES), prefetch processing is performed (step S4190). In the pre-reading process, information (determination result) included in the pre-determination command is stored in the determination result storage area 94 d of the sub-RAM 94 . On the other hand, if not received (step S4180: NO), the above-described look-ahead effect determination process is skipped.

Next, the effect control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not a command for the number of pending balls is received from the main control board 80 (step S4200). If received (step S4200: YES), hold display processing is performed (step S4210). In the pending display process, based on the information on the special figure 1 reserved ball number, the special figure 2 reserved ball number, and the normal symbol reserved ball number included in the reserved ball number command, the counter set area 94c of the sub RAM 94 is provided. The values of the first special figure reservation effect counter, the second special figure reservation effect counter, and the general figure reservation effect counter are updated. As a result, not only the main control board 80 side but also the sub-control board 90 side can hold the information of each reserved ball number. In addition, the effect control microcomputer 91 is based on the values of the first special figure pending effect counter, the second special figure pending effect counter, and the general figure pending effect counter, the pending image 9A displayed on the display screen 7a, Update 9B. On the other hand, if the command for the number of pending balls has not been received (step S4200: NO), the above-described pending display processing is skipped.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not a variation start command is received from the main control board 80 (step S4220). When receiving (step S4220: YES), change production start processing is performed (step S4230). "Variation production start processing" is a process of selecting a variation production pattern (contents) to be executed during special symbol fluctuation. The details of the fluctuation effect start processing will be described later. On the other hand, when it has not received (step S4220: NO), it skips the above-mentioned fluctuation production|presentation start processing.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not the fluctuation stop command is received from the main control board 80 (step S4240). If it is received (step S4240: YES), change effect end processing is performed (step S4250). "Variation effect end processing" is a process for stopping the variation effect that is executed during the special symbol variation. In the fluctuation production end processing, the production control microcomputer 91 sets a counter and the like based on the analysis result of the fluctuation stop command, and sets the fluctuation production end command for ending the fluctuation production. As a result, the effect symbol corresponding to the special figure 1 or special figure 2 during fluctuation is stopped and displayed. In addition, when the fluctuation stop command is not received (step S4240: NO), the above-mentioned fluctuation production end processing is skipped.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not a hit-related command is received from the main control board 80 (step S4260). Win-related commands include a jackpot opening command, a round designation command, an ending command, a small prize opening command, a round designation command, an ending command, and the like. Here, if it is received (step S4260: YES), a hit related effect pattern determination process corresponding to each command is performed (step S4270). For example, when an opening command for a big win is received, an effect pattern for the opening effect preset corresponding to the type of the big win is selected, and an opening effect start command for starting the selected opening effect is stored in the sub-RAM 94. It is set in the effect command set area 94b. When the opening effect start command set in the effect command set area 94b is transmitted to the image control board 100 in the command transmission process (step S4130 in FIG. 18), the image control board 100 reads out a predetermined opening effect image, It is displayed on the display screen 7 a of the image display device 7 . The same is true for other commands. On the other hand, if not received (step S4260: NO), the process of step S4270 is skipped.
Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 91 executes other processing (step S4280), and terminates the received command analysis processing.

[Variation production start processing]
FIG. 19 is a flow chart of the variable production start process (FIG. 18: step S4230). The effect control microcomputer 91 first analyzes the variation start command (step S4401). Here, the effect control microcomputer 91 sets the information on the special figure stop design data included in the variation start command and the information on the variation pattern to the sub-RAM 94 . The set information includes the game state information indicating the current game state, the pattern information indicating the pattern as the determination result of the hit determination process of the special figure 1 or the special figure 2, and the like. The gaming state information and symbol information acquired here can be appropriately referred to by the effect control microcomputer 91 .

Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 91 performs basic production pattern determination processing (step S4402). The basic effect pattern determination process is a process of determining the basic configuration of the variable effect using the effect pattern table. The basic configuration of the variable effect includes, for example, the display and switching of background images on the image display device 7, the display and operation of predetermined characters, the output of melodies and sound effects using the speaker 67, and the lighting control of lamps. and so on. The variable production is completed by superimposing an additional production such as a chance-up production on this basic production.

The effect control microcomputer 91 refers to the effect pattern table stored in the sub ROM 93 to determine the basic effect pattern. After determining the basic effect pattern, the effect control microcomputer 91 performs chance-up effect pattern determination processing (step S4403). The chance-up effect pattern determination process is a process for determining an additional effect to be superimposed on the variable effect. A performance control microcomputer 91 acquires a counter value of a chance-up random number, refers to the acquired random number and a chance-up performance pattern determination table stored in a sub ROM 93, and determines a chance-up performance pattern. After determining the chance-up effect pattern, the effect control microcomputer 91 may further refer to the random number value and the stop pattern pattern determination table to determine the combination of the effect symbols 8L, 8C and 8R to be stopped and displayed. .

The effect control microcomputer 91 sets the variable effect start command in the effect command set area 94b (output buffer) of the sub RAM 94 so that the variable effect based on the variable effect pattern determined in steps S4401 to S4403 is realized ( step S4404). When the variable effect start command set in the effect command set area 94b of the sub RAM 94 is transmitted to the image control board 100 in the command transmission process ( FIG. 17 : step S4130), the image control board 100 reads out the variable effect image. , is displayed on the display screen 7 a of the image display device 7 .

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 91 sets a variable effect timer (step S4405), and terminates this process. A variable time corresponding to the variable pattern variable pattern included in the variable start command is set in the variable performance timer.

[Launch notification process]
FIG. 20 is a flow chart of the launch notification process (step S4280 in FIG. 18).
The effect control microcomputer 91 first determines whether or not a customer waiting command is received (step S4281). If received (step S4281: YES), the effect control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not the value of the time saving counter is greater than 0 (step S4282). When the value of the time saving counter is greater than "0" (step S4282: YES), the effect control microcomputer 91 executes the firing notification effect processing (step S4285) and terminates the firing notification processing. In the shooting notification effect process, the effect control microcomputer 91 sets a command for executing an effect that prompts the player to fire. When the value of the time saving counter is "0" (step S4282: NO), the effect control microcomputer 91 skips step S4285 and ends the firing notification process.

On the other hand, when the customer waiting command is not received (step S4281: NO), the effect control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not the final variable effect is being executed (step S4283). If the final variation effect is being executed (step S4283: YES), the effect control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 is less than "4" (step S4284). When the number of held balls is less than "4" (step S4284: YES), the effect control microcomputer 91 executes the shooting notification effect processing (step S4285), and ends the shooting notification processing. Also, if the number of pending balls is "4" (step S4284: YES), the effect control microcomputer 91 skips step S4285 and terminates the shooting notification process. Also, when the final variation effect is not being executed (step S4283: NO), the effect control microcomputer 91 skips step S4285 and ends the firing notification process.
That is, the production control microcomputer 91 receives the customer waiting command in the time saving game state, or when the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 is less than "4" at the time of the final fluctuation of the time saving game, launch notification production processing (Step S4285) is executed.

8. Rendering Example of the Present Embodiment An rendering example of the present embodiment will be shown below.

[Example of launch notification effect to V area]
21A and 21B are diagrams for explaining an example of a shooting notification effect for the V area. FIGS. 21A to 21F are generally in chronological order, and show an example of the effect when the round game after the big win is completed and the two-type big win is won in the time-saving game with seven fluctuations.
As shown in FIG. 21(A), the explanation starts from the state where the special figure 2 variable effect is being executed in the time saving game. The variable performance is a performance in which the performance symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R fluctuate on the display screen 7a. Here, the production patterns 8L, 8C and 8R are fluctuating at high speed. Further, the variable icon 9C and the pending icon 9B are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 21(B), the special figure 2 stops with a small winning design. Here, the performance symbols 8L, 8C and 8R stop at "6", "V" and "6" respectively. Other display contents are the same as those in FIG.

Next, as shown in FIG. 21(C), at the same time as the small winning opening effect is started, a launch notification effect is executed to prompt the game ball to be launched so that the game ball passes through the V region. Here, a V-area enlarged image VK that enables recognition of where the V-area is located in the game area 3, a launch promotion image MY that says "Aim for here and hit! Pass through V to win big!" is displayed on the display screen 7a. It should be noted that, in the round game that is executed immediately after the opening effect, the explanation will be continued assuming that one game ball has passed through the V area 39 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 21(D), an effect suggesting that the game ball has passed through the V area 39 and that a big win has been confirmed is executed. Here, the performance symbols 8L, 8C and 8R stopped at "6", "V" and "6" respectively in FIG. A production that is changed to is performed. This effect is executed after the firing notification effect for prompting firing to the V region using the V-region enlarged image VK and the firing promotion image MY is finished. Further, the variable icon 9C and the pending icon 9B are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 21(E), a jackpot opening effect is executed. Here, a big win notification image OM reading "big win!!!" is displayed.

Next, as shown in FIG. 21(F), the second and subsequent rounds of the round game are started. Here, a round image RM indicating the number of rounds currently being executed and a character image CR are displayed.

FIG. 22 is a time chart diagram when the launch notification effect to the V area is executed. Time T1 in this figure corresponds to the timing at which the small winning effect shown in FIG. 21(C) is executed. Also, the time T2 corresponds to the timing at which the effect indicating that the big win shown in FIG. 21(E) is confirmed is executed. During the period from time T1 to time T2, the launch notification effect is executed.

[Example of launch notification effect when transitioning to customer waiting state during time saving game]
FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining an example of a launch notification effect when shifting to a customer waiting state during a time-saving game. FIG. 23 shows a state in which the round game after the big win is finished and the time-saving game of seven variations is performed, and FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 23(A), the explanation starts from the state where the special figure 2 variable effect is being executed. Here, the production patterns 8L, 8C and 8R are fluctuating at high speed. Further, the variation icon 9C is displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a. In addition, the description continues assuming that the number of reserved balls of special figure 2 at this time is 0.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(B), a fixed stop effect is executed in which the effect symbols fluctuating in FIG. 23(A) are stopped in a losing mode. Here, the performance symbols 8L, 8C and 8R are stopped at "0", "7" and "2" respectively. Other display modes are the same as in FIG. 23(A).

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(C), the state is shifted to the customer waiting state. The customer waiting state is a state that is shifted when the waiting time elapses in the state where the number of reserved balls of the special figure 1 and the special figure 2 is both 0 (step S1414 in FIG. 13), and the display screen 7a A standby screen is displayed. Since the time-saving game that is executed before shifting to this customer waiting state and is re-shifted when the game is resumed is a gaming state in which it is recommended to enter the second start port 21, In the customer waiting state shown in FIG. 23(C), a launch notification effect is executed to prompt the launch of a game ball to enter the second start hole 21 . Here, a second start opening enlarged image NK that allows recognition of where the second start opening 21 is located in the game area 3, a launch promotion image MY that says "Aim here and hit!" and a right-handed promotion image RS for encouraging recommended right-handed hitting are displayed. Further, since this is the standby screen, the effect button image BG and the message image MG "menu display" are displayed. In this state, the game is restarted, and the description continues assuming that one ball is entered into the second starting hole 21 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(D), based on the fact that one ball is entered into the second starting hole 21, the time saving game is restarted and the variable effect is executed. This display mode is the same as in FIGS. 23A and 23B. At the same time as the start of this variable effect, the customer waiting state ends, and along with this, the launch notification effect using the second start opening enlarged image NK, the launch promotion image MY, and the right-handed promotion image RS also ends. are doing.

FIG. 24 is a time chart diagram in the case where the shooting notification effect is executed when shifting to the customer waiting state during the time saving game. Time T3 in this figure corresponds to the timing when the variable effect is fixed and stopped as shown in FIG. 23(B). Further, time T4 corresponds to the timing of shifting to the customer waiting state shown in FIG. 23(C). Furthermore, the time T5 is shown in FIG. 23 (D), the game ball enters the second start opening 21, corresponds to the timing when the special figure 2 fluctuation in the time saving game is restarted. During the period from time T4 to time T5, the launch notification effect is executed.

[Example of firing notification effect at the time of final fluctuation of time saving game]
FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining an example of a launch notification effect at the time of the final variation of the time saving game. FIG. 25 shows that the round game after the jackpot is over, and the 6th to 7th times of the 7 variable time-saving games are performed, and FIGS. there is
Description is started from the state where the effect|presentation which stops the 6th time of a time saving game shown in FIG. 25(A) is performed. Here, the production patterns 8L, 8C and 8R are stopped at "0", "7" and "2" respectively. Also, the variable icon 9C and the pending icon 9B are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a. In addition, at this time, the description continues assuming that the number of reserved balls of special figure 2 is 3.

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(B), the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 is consumed by one, and the final variation effect of the time saving game is started. Furthermore, at the start of this final variation effect, the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 became 2 and became less than 4, so the launch notification effect is also executed at the same time. The launch notification effect is executed when the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 is less than 4 at the time of the final fluctuation of the time saving game, and the second start that can recognize where the second start port 21 is located in the game area 3 By displaying a mouth enlarged image NK, a hold promotion image HY saying "Let's aim for this and accumulate holds!" , It is urged to set the number of reserved balls of special figure 2 to 4 during the execution of the final variation production. Further, along with the execution of the shooting notification effect, the variable effect is executed in the lower left area of the display screen 7a using the effect symbols 8LS, 8CS, 8RS instead of the effect symbols 8L, 8C, 8R. Here, the performance symbols 8LS, 8CS, and 8RS are fluctuating at high speed. Furthermore, a pending icon 9B is displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a. In addition, in this state, the description continues assuming that two game balls enter the second starting port 21 and the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 becomes four.

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(C), the shooting notification effect ends. Here, by displaying the pending icon 9B and the pending completion message image YK that "4 pending" are displayed, it is suggested that the number of pending balls of the special figure 2 has become 4. Even in this state, the variable performance is executed in the lower left area of the display screen 7a using the performance symbols 8LS, 8CS and 8RS instead of the performance symbols 8L, 8C and 8R. Here, the performance symbols 8LS, 8CS, and 8RS are fluctuating at high speed.

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(D), the time-saving final variation effect is executed on the entire display screen 7a. The display mode of the variable effect is changed again to the display of the effect symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R similar to those in FIG. Here, the production patterns 8L, 8C and 8R are fluctuating at high speed. Furthermore, a pending icon 9B is displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

FIG. 26 is a time chart diagram when the firing notification effect is executed at the time of the time saving game final variation. The time T6 in this figure corresponds to the timing at which the final variable effect of the time saving game is started as shown in FIG. 25(B). Moreover, the time T7 corresponds to the timing when the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 becomes 4, as shown in FIG. 25(C). During the period from time T6 to time T7, the launch notification effect is executed.

9. Effect example, modification example, and aspect example of the present embodiment [Effect example]
Examples of effects of this embodiment are shown below.
[Effect 1]
The gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment starts the final variation effect including the period in which the game ball can be entered into the second start port 21 to maximize the lottery opportunity and the hold of the special figure 2 can be accumulated to the upper limit. From this point on, the launch promotion effect is executed (FIG. 23(B)). According to this configuration, the player can play the game without missing a lottery opportunity by setting the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 to 4, and can improve the interest of the game. The time during which the electric chew 22 is released corresponds to the "predetermined period", the second starting port 21 corresponds to the "specific ball entrance", and the effect control microcomputer 91 corresponds to the "effect executing means".

[Effect 2]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment, when the ball enters the second start port 21 and the number of balls held in the special figure 2 becomes 4 at the time of the final fluctuation of the time saving game, the launch promotion effect is canceled (Fig. 23 (C )). According to this configuration, the player can easily recognize that the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 has become 4, and the expectation for the game can be easily generated, and the interest in the game can be improved.

[Effect 3]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above-described embodiment, when the time-saving gaming state is shifted to the customer waiting state, an image in which the position of the second start port 21, which is the shooting position of the game ball recommended when restarting the game, can be recognized. At the same time, a launch promotion effect is executed (FIG. 22(C)). According to this configuration, when the game is restarted, the position from which the game ball should be shot can be easily recognized, and the game can be played smoothly, so that the interest in the game can be improved.

[Effect 4]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above-described embodiment, a guidance image that allows recognition of the second starting port 21 is displayed, and a launch promotion effect is executed (FIG. 23(B)). According to this configuration, the player can easily understand the position of the second starting port 21, and the game can be played smoothly, so that the interest in the game can be improved.

[Effect 5]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above-described embodiment, when a game ball passes through the V area 39 in a predetermined round game after a small win, and a big win is won, when a two-type jackpot is won, the ball is launched at the same time as the start of the round game. Promotion effect is executed (Fig. 21(D)). According to this configuration, the player can easily recognize that the game ball should be hit to pass through the V area 39, and the game can be played smoothly, so that the interest in the game can be improved. can. The time during which the first attacker 31 is released corresponds to the "predetermined period", the V area 39 to the "specific area", and the effect control microcomputer 91 to the "effect executing means".

[Effect 6]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above-described embodiment, when the game ball passes through the V region 39 in the round game after the small win, the launch notification effect is stopped (FIG. 21(E)). According to this configuration, the player can easily recognize that the game ball has passed through the V area 39, and the game can be played smoothly, so that the interest in the game can be improved.

[Effect 7]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above-described embodiment, the position of the V area 39 in the game area 3 is recognized when a two-type jackpot is won by passing the game ball through the V area 39 in the round game after the small win. Along with the display of possible images, a launch promotion effect is executed (Fig. 21(D)). According to this configuration, the player can easily understand the position where the game ball is to be shot to pass through the V area 39, and the game can be played smoothly, thereby enhancing the interest of the game. can be improved.

[Modification]
4 shows a modification of the present embodiment.
[Modification 1]
In the above-described embodiment, the second starting opening enlarged image NK that allows recognition of the second starting opening 21 is displayed, and the launch notification effect is executed. On the other hand, the launch notification effect may be executed without displaying the second starting opening enlarged image NK. Alternatively, a means capable of recognizing the second starting opening 21 may be used instead of the second starting opening enlarged image NK to execute the launch notification effect. For example, the path through which the game ball passes when entering the second start hole 21 in the game area 3 may be illuminated using an LED or the like so that the player can recognize it. The same applies to the V area 39 and the V area enlarged image VK.

[Modification 2]
In the above-described embodiment, the launch notification effect is executed using the display on the display screen 7a. In addition to or instead of this, an audio launch notification effect may be performed. For example, a voice saying "Let's shoot at the V area" is output.

[Modification 3]
In the above embodiment, in order to set the number of reserved balls of the special figure 2 to 4 at the time of the final fluctuation of the time saving game, or to pass through the V area 39 in the round game after the small hit, it encourages the launch of the game ball. rice field. In addition to or instead of these, in the case of transition from the game state in which right-handed hitting is recommended to the game state in which left-handed hitting is recommended, at the same time as the transition, an image that allows the position of the first start opening to be recognized is displayed on the left side. A launch notification effect that prompts the player to strike may be executed.

[Modification 4]
In the above embodiment, when the firing notification effect is executed during the final variation effect in the time-saving game, the variation effect is executed in a partial area of the display screen 7a, and the firing notification effect and the variation effect are recognized at the same time. I was able to do it. On the other hand, the variable effect is displayed on the entire display screen 7a regardless of whether the firing notification effect is executed or not, and the firing notification effect may be displayed so as to cover part or all of the variable effect. good.

[Mode example]
The gaming machine of this embodiment can implement the following aspects.
[Aspect 1]
a game control means capable of switching between a first state in which it is easy to enter a game ball into a specific ball entrance and a second state in which it is difficult to enter;
an effect execution means capable of executing a launch promotion effect that encourages the launch of a game ball for entering the specific ball entrance;
A gaming machine comprising
The game control means switches from the first state to the second state with the end of the specific variation performance when the specific variation performance is executed in the first state,
The effect executing means executes the firing promotion effect from the start of the specific variable effect.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 2]
The gaming machine according to aspect 1,
The effect execution means stops the launch promotion effect when a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific ball entrance.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 3]
The gaming machine according to aspect 1 or aspect 2,
The effect executing means executes the firing promotion effect during the customer waiting mode when the customer waiting mode is entered in the first state.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 4]
The gaming machine according to any one of aspects 1 to 3,
The effect execution means displays a guide image for making the player recognize the position of the specific ball entrance, and executes the launch promotion effect.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 5]
A game control means capable of switching between a first state in which it is easy to pass the game ball through the specific area and a second state in which it is difficult to pass the game ball;
an effect execution means capable of executing a launch promotion effect that encourages the launch of a game ball to pass through the specific area;
A gaming machine comprising
The game control means is
When the opening effect is executed in the second state, switching from the second state to the first state with the end of the opening effect,
switching from the first state to the second state after a predetermined time has elapsed;
The effect execution means starts the launch promotion effect from the start of the opening effect.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 6]
The gaming machine according to aspect 5,
The effect execution means stops the launch promotion effect when a predetermined number of game balls pass through the specific area.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 7]
A gaming machine according to aspect 5 or aspect 6,
The effect execution means displays a guide image for making the player recognize the position of the specific area, and executes the launch promotion effect.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Other Modifications]
The various display effects described above may include a configuration that does not include some of the effects, or may include effects other than those described above.

The gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment has been described by taking a pachinko gaming machine as an example, but it is not limited to this. For example, instead of the pachinko game machine, the present invention may be applied to a reel-type game machine such as a slot machine, an arrange ball game machine, or a mahjong ball game machine. When the game machine 1 is a slot machine, the game medium may be changed from game balls to game medals.

The gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment is a gaming machine equipped with a payout device for paying out balls, but is not limited to this. For example, instead of the game machine 1, the present invention may be applied to a game machine without a payout device, such as a so-called enclosed game machine.

In addition, among the plurality of production examples and/or modifications described above, two or more production examples and/or modifications may be combined. Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 may include a sub-display device in addition to the image display device 7 . In this case, the display effects described above may be executed by the sub-display device.

The present aspect has been described above based on the embodiments and modifications, but the above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present aspect, and do not limit the present aspect. This aspect may be modified and modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims, and this aspect includes equivalents thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... Game machine 3... Game area 7... Image display device 7a... Display screen 21... Second starting port 39... V area 70... Non-V area 81... Game control microcomputer 91... Production control microcomputer

Claims (7)

a game control means capable of switching between a first state in which it is easy to enter a game ball into a specific ball entrance and a second state in which it is difficult to enter;
an effect execution means capable of executing a launch promotion effect that encourages the launch of a game ball for entering the specific ball entrance;
A gaming machine comprising
The game control means switches from the first state to the second state with the end of the specific variation performance when the specific variation performance is executed in the first state,
The effect executing means executes the firing promotion effect from the start of the specific variable effect.
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to claim 1,
The effect execution means stops the launch promotion effect when a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific ball entrance.
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to claim 1 or claim 2,
The effect executing means executes the firing promotion effect during the customer waiting mode when the customer waiting mode is entered in the first state.
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The effect execution means displays a guide image for making the player recognize the position of the specific ball entrance, and executes the launch promotion effect.
A gaming machine characterized by: A game control means capable of switching between a first state in which it is easy to pass the game ball through the specific area and a second state in which it is difficult to pass the game ball;
an effect execution means capable of executing a launch promotion effect that encourages the launch of a game ball to pass through the specific area;
A gaming machine comprising
The game control means is
When the opening effect is executed in the second state, switching from the second state to the first state with the end of the opening effect,
switching from the first state to the second state after a predetermined time has elapsed;
The effect execution means starts the launch promotion effect from the start of the opening effect.
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to claim 5,
The effect execution means stops the launch promotion effect when a predetermined number of game balls pass through the specific area.
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to claim 5 or claim 6,
The effect execution means displays a guide image for making the player recognize the position of the specific area, and executes the launch promotion effect.
A gaming machine characterized by:

Images